ASPEED Announces Spherical Image Processor for 360-Degree Video

The popularity of 360-degree video has exploded over the past year, with companies, brands and individuals exploring how 360-degree videos can be used to capture events and create immersive experiences. ASPEED Technology is seeking to make creating 360-degree videos even easier with its new spherical image processor.

Though there are an almost bewildering array of different types of 360-degree cameras on the market, ranging from small, inexpensive personal camera to large, professional rigs, almost all of them need a separate device to stick together the footage. The Cupola360 processor is set to change that.

At present, even though a camera may have many lenses for capturing footage, another device such as a smartphone or PC is usually required to stitch the different sections of footage into a coherent whole, which can cause problems for some users and slow down production.
ASPEED have utilised its knowledge of system-on-a-chip architecture to produce the Cupola360, which features six big-pixel sensors to allow stitching and post-processing to occur within the camera in real-time, without need for another device.
“There is no denying that in the future, people will relive precious moments in life via virtual reality consisting of 360-degree images,” said Chris Lin, chairman and president of ASPEED. “Therefore, we believe that a spherical camera will soon become a must-have device in every household. ASPEED expects to surprise the public with Cupola360 spherical image processor, so that people can experience first-hand how snappy, convenient and useful a 360-degree camera is in their daily lives.”
The Cupola360 processor allows for up to 4K 360-degree video resolution and can be used in low-light or night-time conditions. The processor also comes equipped with a 3D anti-shake function to ensure image stability, even when running.

ASPEED Technologies will be showcasing the Cupola360 at Computex Taipei on 5th-9th June, 2018 in Booth No L1032, Taipei Nangeng Exhibition Centre. Further information on the Cupola360 can be found on the official website.
For future coverage of new and upcoming VR and 360-degree products and services, keep checking back with VRFocus.